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santacruzxt wrote:Julian Dean isn't a big name? Or did I miss something?I think they will have a very strong bid for Paris Roubiax since all of the recent past winners will already be there, they need Backstedt to complete it.

Not a major name? Dean is possibly the most respected lead out man in the game, and a talented classics rider, who's given everything as a domestique over recent years. Take a look at his palmares.

I know that, that is why I asked it as a question. I think everyone knows that Julian Dean is a great rider, if not Thor might sit on you.

If they go for an american bike company, I hope it's Cannondale. I'm not a fan of the Tarmac or Transition from Specialized. The Felt DA is ok, other than the name. But the F1 doesn't do it for me. Felt's website lists the F1 as 14.9 lbs with dura ace and cosmic carbon sl wheelset though... not too bad really (if it's accurate).

As for the team kit, I read a quote from JV saying the argyle would be back next year, but the colors would be a lot bolder.

I think it's a weird mish-mash lineup of "let's buy who we can afford" vs. "let's sign some people who will make a successful team." Zabriskie, Backstedt, Vandevelde have all been close but no cigar for the past season. Dean looks like he could get some good wins, however, as dos Millar. It will be interesting to see how the surviving current Slipsteam riders mesh with these established players.

As for bikes, considering how , erm, bold the Astana BMC's were, I shudder to think what would happen if they became the Slipstream frame sponsor.

it would be bad if they booted some of the guys off the team to make room, but wouldnt that void their contract? (unless they can find a way to cancel it, or it ends soon).

I think the people that can benefit from this is possibly their junior team. If the guys on the junior team can do good they can possibly have a good shot at a soon to be pro tour team (given that they become a pro tour team). I know their juniors are very good (for example Taylor Phinney).